Shoppers take pole position in F1 experience at Wayfarers Arcade

Grand Prix simulator lets petrol heads drive a lap round Silverstone

Michael Gribble demonstrating his driving skills with daughter Helen and his wife

Visitors to Lord Street’s Wayfarers Shopping Arcade recently experienced a shopping trip with a difference when a full- sized Formula 1 replica car parked up within the arcade.

The iconic Grade II-listed Victorian Arcade, which has stood in the town for more than 115 years, allowed visitors of all ages to enjoy a grand prix adventure in the form of a Formula 1 simulator, where people could race around the famous Silver- stone Circuit on the big screen.

One Wayfarers’ shopper, Mr Michael Gribble, a former motorbike rider, took to the simulator wheel to race round the track, which brought back memories of his own race days.

He said: “I used to race motorbikes for six years at the likes of the Aintree Circuit, Croft Circuit and Brands Hatch. My daughter has bought me tickets to watch the Grand Prix for my birthday and, when we saw that Wayfarers had this simulator we thought it very fitting so we came down. I did a lap and it was great fun, although I wasn’t too impressed with my lap time!"

Yvonne Burns, manager of Wayfarers Shopping Arcade, said: “We hope that everyone enjoyed their time at the arcade over the bank holiday weekend, especially during the Grand Prix Experience day.

“We know how hard it is to find events on your doorstep during school holidays and when most people are off work. We’re really proud of all the events the arcade runs. throughout the year and There really is something for everyone each time.”

Wayfarers Shopping Arc- ade is located at the heart of Southport’s Lord Street and is home to 30 independent shops. Further details on the events and exhibitions run- ning throughout the year can be found at www.wayfarers arcade.co.uk.

The Editor

Andrew Brown

Andrew Brown is the editor of the Southport Visiter, Midweek Visiter, Formby Times, Ormskirk Advertiser, Skelmersdale Advertiser, and the Crosby Herald. Andrew was born and bred in Southport - a true Sandgrounder. Andrew was one of the founders of Southport's Charity Fun Fest.